GEORGE NEWS – George Hospital is set to receive much-needed diagnostic equipment through funds raised during this year’s Big Walk for Cancer, taking place on Saturday 31 October.
The hospital is one of three healthcare facilities earmarked to benefit from the annual fundraising initiative, which aims to improve cancer diagnosis and support patients battling the disease.
The other beneficiaries are Frere Hospital in Buffalo City and Provincial Hospital in Nelson Mandela Bay.
This year’s event places particular emphasis on prostate cancer awareness, with a record number of men already registered to participate.
For the first time in the event’s 28-year history, the Prostate Foundation of South Africa has been selected as a beneficiary, alongside CHOC, the Childhood Cancer Foundation.
Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among South African men, with research cited by organisers indicating a lifetime risk of up to one in 23.
Algoa FM managing director Alfie Jay says early detection remains one of the most important weapons in the fight against the disease.
“The good news is that prostate cancer survival rates are close to 100% when caught early, but drop significantly if the disease reaches an advanced stage. Our message is ‘get tested’.”
Men over 50, particularly those with a family history of prostate cancer, are encouraged to discuss screening with their healthcare providers.
In addition to supporting diagnostic services at the three hospitals, funds raised will help CHOC purchase a double-cab vehicle to enable staff to reach children battling cancer in rural areas of the Eastern Cape.
George Hospital will serve as one of the starting points for the 5km walk, which gets under way at 08:00 on Saturday.
The event brings together cancer survivors, patients, families and supporters, many of whom walk in honour of loved ones affected by the disease.
For George, the initiative offers more than an opportunity to raise awareness. It could also strengthen local healthcare services by providing equipment that supports earlier cancer diagnosis.
Entries remain open, with registration available on Thursday and Friday from 12:00 to 19:00. Further details are available on the Algoa FM website.
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